You can totally add stairway lights to existing steps! So don’t listen to anyone who tells you it cannot be done. Many people will tell you that you need to add the lights when the steps are being constructed, but you can also attach them afterward.
In fact, there are multiple ways in which you can add outdoor lighting to concrete stairs. Let us break it down for you in this comprehensive guide on lighting advice.
Get the Supplies Ready
For starters, you need to get all the supplies ready. You will need hardscape lighting such as landscape lights in the form of solar-powered LED lights or flush lights. Once the lights are sorted, you will need the following hardscape materials, such as adhesive tape.
We recommend getting exterior double-stick tape as it has a sticky surface on both sides so that you can secure the exterior step lights easily. A 3M Double-sided mounting tape should do the trick because it is water-proof on both ends. You will also need a decent-quality measuring tape to measure precisely where you need to place your outdoor LED lights.
Solar Lights vs. LED Lights
There are two clear winners when it comes to bulb choice: solar-powered lights and LED (light-emitting diode) lighting. If you want to opt for the more eco-friendly option, then it is solar panels all the way. Please note that solar lights are not as powerful as other lights, and this option might not work if the light fixtures are attached in a spot that does not receive ample sunlight.
On the other hand, LED lights are far more powerful and provide more illumination. A 12V LED light is sufficient for staircase lighting purposes. In fact, the latest LED lights are more efficient at saving energy, so they may prove a better eco-friendly alternative that is also cost-effective in the long run.
Now let’s talk about landscape step lighting in detail! We will discuss various lights for staircases ideas, and you can choose the most feasible method for your outdoor steps. There are so many options that you are bound to find something that works for you.
Method 1: High-end Stair Lighting Designs with Additional Tape
For this method, you will need to clean the steps beforehand to get rid of dirt and dust. You need a dust-free surface to make sure the double-sided tape sticks to the concrete. Take your outdoor lights and attach one side of the sticky tape, smoothing down the surface so that there are no air pockets. Then peel off the other side and attach the concrete step lights at the appropriate spot.
Use your measuring tape and mark every spot to place each individual light for an overall balanced lighting effect. Evenly-spaced lights give a beautiful glow of light in the evening. Your visitors will appreciate the warm aesthetic as they come down the steps for a night-time stroll.
Lights at regular intervals also help people with poor eyesight navigate the steps. Bright lights also keep unwelcome intruders away. So this method is ideal for people who want light for safety and security purposes.
Method 2: Stair Tread Lighting for Concrete Steps
There are also some alternative lighting methods that you can try out. For example, you could attach circular lights to each step’s vertical part or riser. This is a good way of getting an embedded light source that provides direct light at the center of each step without being in the way.
However, this method is not a do-it-yourself kind of thing. For best results, we suggest that you hire a team of professionals who can get the job done with the minimum amount of fuss. It also saves you the hassle of doing it yourself and figuring out complicated wiring placement.
You might be shelling out extra cash, but the end result is worth it. Stair tread fixtures are barely noticeable during the day but provide a soft glow by night. All eyes will be drawn towards the soft light and nobody will even notice the conveniently hidden fixtures!
Method 3: Under cap Illumination for Exterior Stairs
Finally, you can also add high-efficiency LED lighting beneath the protruding edge of each step. These lights are called under cap lights because they are added under the lip of each step. They provide a warm glow on the step directly below the step on which they are attached. The overall effect is similar to stair tread lights. The attention is drawn towards the glow and not the light source.
However, under cap lights will cost a lot more compared to regular lighting fixtures. Each under cap light can cost around $50, and you will need approximately 20-30 of these depending on the number of steps you want to be lit up. The total bill might put a pretty hefty dent in your pocket, but if you are willing to bear the extra cost, then you will get an elegant staircase that is well-lit in the latest style that is modern and minimalist.
That’s not all! These methods are not the only way that you can illuminate your staircase. Honestly, the sky is the limit and there are so many ways you can go about this. Instead of attaching the light fixtures to the steps, you can attach them to the sides. If you have banisters running down the sides, you can invest in some themed lights. You could get custom light holders or lantern-style fixtures. Minimalist sconces in a sleek black or grey color are great options.
And that’s a wrap on this lighting advice guide. You can go for whichever option appeals to your sense of style, but do factor in the number of steps and wiring costs. Keeping these three factors in mind will help you make an informed decision that will light up your staircase in the best possible way.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it! Whether you choose floodlights or those that are solar panel powered, you will always have pathway lights to guide you along.
